Motional and Uber’s Hyundai Ioniq 5 Robotaxi Hits Las Vegas Streets with Real-World Trip Data to Power Autonomous Ride-Hailing Future

Uber and Motional have launched a robotaxi service in Las Vegas using all-electric Hyundai IONIQ 5 vehicles, marking a significant step in the deployment of autonomous ride-hailing technology. The service began on March 13, 2026, and is available to riders who request UberX, Uber Electric, Uber Comfort, or Uber Comfort Electric through the Uber app.

At launch, the robotaxis operate in designated areas along Las Vegas Boulevard, including rideshare zones at Resorts World Las Vegas and Encore at Wynn Las Vegas, as well as curbside locations in Downtown Las Vegas and the Town Square shopping district near the airport. The companies plan to expand the service area in the future.

Riders matched with a Motional robotaxi receive a notification in the Uber app and can choose to accept the autonomous ride or switch to a non-AV vehicle. Once the vehicle arrives, users unlock it and start the trip through the Uber app. Inside the robotaxi, audio cues remind passengers to close doors and fasten seat belts.

Uber customers in Las Vegas who want to increase their chances of being matched with a robotaxi can opt in through the Ride Preferences section of the Uber app under Settings. There is no additional cost for riding in a Motional robotaxi compared to standard Uber services.

Safety remains a priority for both companies. Motional’s robotaxis meet Uber’s Autonomous Safety Guidelines, and riders have access to human support via the Uber app if assistance is needed during a trip. Initially, the robotaxis feature a vehicle operator monitoring the road from behind the steering wheel.

The all-electric Hyundai IONIQ 5 vehicles used in the service align with broader industry efforts to integrate electric vehicles into autonomous fleets. Uber has previously highlighted its role in accelerating EV adoption through ride-hailing platforms, noting that increased utilization of electric vehicles in shared services can help drive growth in charging infrastructure.